Season's Greetings from us to you

Happiest of Holidays

This year the house has remained a bit dirtier than usual. The carpets often have bits of fuzz or lint dotting the 20 year old fibers. When looking at our dresser at just the right angle, you can see a thorough, delicate coating of dust. The windows need washing and the basement is a constant American Girl disaster zone.

The cleanliness of our house is perhaps a testament to the busyness of our lives, but more accurately, I believe it is a reflection of our shift in priorities. This year, more than any other, we have made a conscious effort to take care of ourselves and of each other.

We've had a great year, with lots of career accomplishments and the girls' continual growth in every part of their lives. And yet, I am most proud that our little unit keeps working to communicate and encourage each other. There are days when we aren't successful and it's a constant process: learning how to best love each other. But hopefully how we treat each other as a family will translate to our relationships outside the home and maybe those interactions will be the spark that encourages others to extend grace to those around them.

We head into the new year, with the same resolution: showing kindness to all in what we say and do. May 2018 bring you peace and love. And, if you don't mind a little extra dust, there's always a bed and a hot cup of coffee for you here in Wichita.

It's that time of year again

Family photos.

There's nothing like the turning of the leaves, frosty mornings, and pumpkin spice everything to remind you that Christmas card season is right around the corner. Which means, you've got to get your rear in gear and get the annual family picture taken.

I really dread the whole process. Scouting out a location, styling your family, trying to convince the kids to wear the clothes you've picked, getting hair brushed, finding a time that everyone is happy.

And what is it about the camera that turns kids into complete lunatics? They can't just smile nicely?

Does anyone have fun taking family photos? Maybe it'll be less painful when the kids are a bit older.

However, sometimes silliness captures personality pretty perfectly.

And while it's a huge pain in the ass and insecurity rears its ugly head, I know I'll be grateful for these snapshots that documents this time in our lives. Especially since I'm usually behind the camera.

5 years old. Going on 10.

My sassy, sensitive, sweetest little girl.

My people.

I spent a good chunk this afternoon designing our Christmas card. These two didn't make the cut.

Aren't you excited to see the one we picked?!

Also, peace and serenity to you if family photos are still on your to-do list.

Happy Holidays!

It's that time of year again...

Christmas Cards.

It is getting increasingly more difficult as the years go by to get a decent picture of the entire family.

Here's a preview of this year's photo shoot:

Thankfully, we got some good ones for the card.